Portable collapsible air isolation apparatus

ABSTRACT

A collapsible air isolation apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may include a collapsible frame including a base and a set of rigid panel or soft elements at least partially enclosing a volume of space, where each of the set of rigid or soft panel elements is foldably hinged to at least one of the base or another of the rigid or soft panel elements, and where at least one panel element of the set of rigid or soft panel elements includes an open space for mounting a motor for moving air. The apparatus may include mounting system attached to the base.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/246,715 filed May 2, 2021, entitled “PORTABLE COLLAPSIBLE AIRISOLATION APPARATUS” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 63/023,250 filed May 12, 2020, which are incorporated byreference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to the field of devices for isolation ofairborne pathogens, and more particularly to portable devices for usewith patients in isolating the airborne pathogens.

Background

In recent years there have been incidences of viral outbreaks includingones with pandemic effects, with such viral outbreaks including the H1N1virus, SARS-CoV and SAR-CoV-2 spreading throughout the globe. Inaddition, the world is facing increases in drug-resistant strains ofpathogenic organisms.

Existing devices used for these and other problems have failed toaddress the needs of health care professionals and patients. Somedevices have provided for enclosing the air space of a patient; however,these devices have drawbacks. Some existing devices are bulky, taking upsignificant space and being difficult to deploy due to the bulk of thedevices. Some other devices have been too flimsy or lack good visibilityfor the health care professionals to visually monitor the patients. Someof the existing devices, however are expensive, difficult to deploy, orotherwise fail to meet the needs for large rapid development. Somedevices fail to properly contain the infectious airborne particulateswithin the contained environment.

There is an increasing need for improved devices that help to reduce orisolate pathogens between a healthcare provider and a patient that isconvenient to deploy.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved isolation device thataddresses the threats of increasing infectious outbreak that is alsosuitable for mass deployment.

SUMMARY

In an aspect of the disclosure, a collapsible air isolation apparatus isdisclosed. The apparatus may include a collapsible frame including abase and a set of rigid panel elements at least partially enclosing avolume of space, where the set of rigid panel elements is foldablyhinged to at least one of the base or another of the rigid panelelements, and where at least one panel of the set of rigid panelelements comprises an open space for mounting a motor for moving air.The apparatus may include the motor for moving air configured to createa negative pressure within the volume of space of the collapsible frame.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a method for treating a personusing a collapsible isolation apparatus is disclosed. The method mayinclude providing the collapsible isolation apparatus including acollapsible frame including a base and a set of rigid panel elements atleast partially enclosing a volume of space, where the set of rigidpanel elements is foldably hinged to at least one of the base or anotherof the rigid panel elements, and where at least one panel of the set ofrigid panel elements includes an open space for mounting a motor formoving air. The method may include assembling the collapsible isolationapparatus by folding out the plurality of rigid panel elements into anassembled configuration. The method may include providing the persontreatment using the collapsible isolation apparatus. The method mayinclude placing and orienting the person within the collapsibleisolation apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary portable collapsible airisolation apparatus for treatment of patients with respiratory symptoms,according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a view of the exemplary apparatus as viewed from theoperator's perspective, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is side view of the exemplary apparatus, according to anembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a bottom view of the exemplary apparatus, according to anembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a side profile illustration of the gurney/bed couplingmechanism of FIG. 4A, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4C is another side profile illustration showing rotation of thebrace component, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a side view of the exemplary apparatus showing steps tocollapse the apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B is front view (from patient's perspective) of the exemplaryapparatus showing steps to collapse the apparatus, according to anembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5C is an illustration showing steps to collapse the apparatus,according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5D is another illustration showing a representation of thecollapsed state of the panel segments of the apparatus, according to anembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is perspective view of the exemplary apparatus in a collapsestate, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is front view (from the patient's perspective) of the exemplaryapparatus as used by an operator and patient of the apparatus, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary flow diagram illustrating methods for assemblingthe exemplary portable collapsible air isolation apparatus. Theapparatus may be the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 9 is an another exemplary flow diagram illustrating methods fordisassembling or collapsing the exemplary portable collapsible airisolation apparatus. The apparatus may be the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 10 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 1 showing a perspectiveview of an exemplary portable collapsible air isolation apparatus fortreatment of patients with respiratory symptoms, according to anembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 2 showing a view of theexemplary apparatus as viewed from the operator's perspective, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 3 showing a side view ofthe exemplary apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 13A is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 4A showing a bottom viewof the exemplary apparatus, according to an embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 14 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 4C showing another sideprofile illustration with FIG. 4C showing rotation of the bracecomponent, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the apparatus including the Bianca Box.

FIG. 16 shows a side view of the apparatus including the Bianca Box inanother configuration.

FIG. 17 shows another view of the apparatus including the Bianca Box.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of various configurations and isnot intended to represent the only configurations in which the conceptsdescribed herein may be practiced. The detailed description includesspecific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understandingof various concepts. It will, however, be apparent to those skilled inthe art that these concepts may be practiced without these specificdetails. In some instances, well known structures and components areshown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

According to some health organizations, one concept of infection controlis to prevent or stop the spread of infections in the healthcaresetting. Separating or isolating infectious organisms from a cleanenvironment by utilizing a physical barrier limits the spread of theinfectious organism. Several aspects of an air isolation apparatus orbox will now be presented with reference to various apparatuses andmethods. These apparatuses and methods will be described in thefollowing detailed description and illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings by various blocks, modules, components, steps, processes, etc.(collectively referred to as “elements”). While the methods may bedescribed in an ordered series of steps, it will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art that the methods may be practiced in any operativeorder and each step may be practiced in various forms that are apparentto those skilled in the art. Air isolation apparatus, isolationapparatus, box, intubation box, isolation system, system, or simplyapparatus may be used interchangeably in the disclosure. In someexamples, patient isolation apparatus/structure/box/system may be usedinterchangeably with Air isolation apparatus. In some instances, theseterms may refer to the entire system including the structure, andaccessories such as an intravenous (IV) pole, filtration system, etc. Inother instances, the terms may simply refer to the structure itself notincluding any or all of the accessories. Some exemplary measurements maybe provided throughout the specification by way of example and not oflimitation. When a numerical value and/or measurement is provided, it isunderstood that the dimensions may be smaller or larger according topreference or design requirements.

A portable collapsible air isolation apparatus may be versatile, yetprovide a portable protective barrier enclosure designed to prevent anoperator of the apparatus and their equipment from exposure topathogenic biological airborne particulates, such as SARS-CoV-2, aninfectious respiratory virus. In some embodiments, the apparatus mayprovide a non-permeable physical barrier that effectively separatesinfectious aerosolized droplet particles from the surroundingenvironment, by containing the patient's infectious droplets within itsmicro-environment. An operator may be used interchangeably with healthcare provider. Health care provider may include, without limitation,practitioners, including physicians, physician assistants, pharmacists,dentists, nurse practitioners, nurses, respiratory therapists,paramedics, emergency medical technicians, physical therapists,technologists, dental assistants, or any other practitioners or alliedhealth professionals, etc. that have a role in using a device for humanuse. “Operator” may be one or more of any combination of health carepractitioners. This medical device may be a transparent physical barrierdesigned to cover a patient's head and upper body that incorporatesaccess ports, sealed by Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-grade siliconerubber, to allow for isolated patient access through which theoperator's hands may be passed to perform medical procedures. Due to itsmobile capability, the protective barrier enclosure may be utilized byfirst responders upon the initial point of contact with a confirmedinfectious, or suspected to be infectious, patient. By isolating apatient from the initial point of contact, the risks of spreading deadlydiseases such as SARS-CoV-2, through aerosolization and fomite transfermay be significantly reduced. Those skilled in the art will recognizethat the description provided herein is by way of example and oflimitation. In other embodiments, the air isolation apparatus may beused with robots or remote-controlled robotic systems. In yet otherembodiments, the air isolation apparatus may be used in mixedenvironments with a mixture of human attendants (operators) andmachinery or robotic systems. For example, robotic systems may providefor routine or pre-programmed procedures on a patient through the airisolation apparatus, while humans may provide specialized procedures(either before or after the robotic assistances).

In some embodiments, the apparatus may provide an additional layer ofbarrier protection in addition to personal protective equipment (PPE)against airborne particles or droplets expelled from patients or theattending healthcare provider. In this manner, the apparatus may provideprotection to one or both of the healthcare provider and the patient.While the apparatus may provide for significant protection, in someinstances, the apparatus may not be intended to replace the need for PPEor room/equipment sanitation and disinfection procedures. Because theapparatus is portable and collapsible, the apparatus may be removed ifto avoid impeding an operator's ability to care for a patient orimpeding the operator's ability to perform a medical procedure on thepatient. The patient may be under direct observation and receivesupplemental oxygen via portable or wall-mounted medical air during useof the apparatus.

The design of the apparatus may provide fast and speedy deployment basedon the foldable configuration that allows the apparatus to be deployedin a few easy steps. As well, the apparatus may be folded up when theoperator is finished with use of the apparatus. Fast deployment providessignificant benefits to both the patient who can receive immediate care,while also provide benefits to the operators who will be protected frompossible pathogens from the patient. Another benefit of the design mayinclude safety in deploying the apparatus and safety in usage of theapparatus. The apparatus may also be designed with the features ofportability and versatility.

In one embodiment a gurney attachment system may be provided forenhancing the functions of the apparatus. In some embodiments, thegurney attachment system may be a proprietary system design to besuitably used with the apparatus. The gurney attachment system mayinclude two components of an anchor and a brace. Together, the anchorand brace allow the apparatus to be quickly attached to most gurneys andhospitals beds, and to be safely used during transport of a patient,decreasing chances of injury to the patient or operator. The brace mayalso prevent the apparatus from sliding forward and down when the headof the gurney or bed is elevated to Fowler's position (e.g., a standardpatient position where the patient may be seated at any angle including45-60 degrees), allowing the patient to sit upright and breathe morecomfortably.

In one aspect, the apparatus may be configured as a proprietarymulti-purpose apparatus with ample interior space for working with thepatient. The apparatus may be configured to contain the spread ofinfectious aerosolized droplets within a small footprint, while stillallowing ample room for an operator to freely maneuver medicalinstruments inside of the apparatus. In another aspect, the apparatusmay be configured to provide safe access to a patient without physicalrestrictions. The wide main access panel may allow the operator to haveunrestricted access to the patient including the patient's cephalicregion, providing the operator with sufficient range-of-motion to rendervarious life-saving medical procedures or treatments without the typicalconstraints associated with an intubation box.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a self-sustainingfiltration system that allows the apparatus to be used for any durationincluding long durations. For example, by supplying a 3M® HEPAfiltration system, the apparatus may be able to sustain its ownnegative-pressure micro-environment, without the need of an externalsource of suction (e.g., a hospital suction line), for up to eight hoursor more as a patient is being transported. In some embodiments, thefiltration system may be powered (e.g., battery or electricity powered)using any number of filter elements; in other embodiments, thefiltration system may be a passive (non-powered) system.

A storage box found on the operator side (e.g., the side used by anoperator to serve the patient) of the unit may allow for convenientaccess and protection of all the mechanical filtration components, aswell as an IV Pole. The apparatus provides many benefits including earlyisolation. Isolating a patient with infectious or potentially infectiousaerosolized droplets and other pathogens from the first point of contactin the field may significantly reduce the risk of inadvertentlyspreading a deadly respiratory disease, such as SARS-CoV-2. Anotherbenefit may include durability of the embodiments. The apparatus may becomprised of lightweight and durable aluminum, which provides astructural framework for the flexible and highly impact resistantpolycarbonate panels that may compose the apparatus. One or more panelsmay form a frame of the apparatus. One skilled in the art will recognizethat materials may vary based on design or user preference. While someembodiments show rigid panels and structures, the disclosure is not solimited. In some examples, non-rigid structures and materials may beused where suitable based on user preference or design. In otherembodiments, the materials may be selected from any variety of metals,woods, plastics, polymers, ceramics, glass, hybrids, etc. Non-rigidmaterials may be used where suitable, with such materials includingfabrics/textiles (whether natural or synthetic), foams, etc.

Another benefit of the embodiments may include providing access tovarious points of the patient. For example, the apparatus may includeholes or openings at any of the surfaces including the top, side, rear(facing from the open side). For example, the apparatus may be equippedwith various access points (e.g., main access panel, auxiliary accesspanel and semi-circular arm port) which may allow first responders andoperator to safely, properly, and effectively render the vital care arespiratory-compromised patient may require.

The apparatus may enable a patient-focused perspective. For example,multiple respiratory treatment modalities may be utilized. By allowingoperator and first-responders to safely perform aerosol generatingprocedures (AGP) such as intubation, emergency continuous positiveairway pressure (CPAP), bi-level positive airway pressure (Bi-PAP), highflow nasal canula (HFNC), and nebulized breathing treatments out in thefield, a patient's chances of survival may be significantly increaseddue to the earlier onset of medical care received. As well, theapparatus provides the ability to render necessary life-savingtreatments/procedures earlier on during the course of infection that maysignificantly increase a patient's chances of survival.

Yet another benefit of the apparatus may be lowering costs by keepinghealthcare employees safe, preventing the spread of germs and pathogens,decreasing costs on cleaning supplies, and potentially decreasing staffcall-outs.

In the various embodiments, some features of the apparatus may include afoldable design, with an apparatus that may fold down to a height offive inch or less; other embodiments may fold to a taller height basedon design or preference. Another feature may include a collapsibledesign, with the apparatus being able to be collapsed in as few as tenseconds or less; other embodiments with increased features or based ondesign or preference may fold in greater than ten seconds. Yet anotherfeature may include fast and speedy assembly, with the physical barrierthat may be quickly assembled in ten seconds or less; other embodimentswith increased features or based on design or preference may beassembled in greater than ten seconds. Some embodiments may includegenerous interior dimensions providing ample room for an operator tocomfortably perform necessary procedures/treatments without the typicalconstraints of other embodiments. Yet another feature may include fastand speedy full apparatus assembly, including assembly of the entiresystem which may include the apparatus, motor with filter (e.g., a 3M®motor with HEPA filter), and clear drape which may together be assembledin at little as one and a half minutes or less; other embodiments withincreased features or based on design or preference may be assembled ingreater than one and a half minute. While the disclosure includes amotor in some embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize thatany variety of mechanisms to provide negative pressure may be used,including the motors, other electro-magnetic systems, induction systems,fans, blower motors, or any other mechanical or hydraulic type system,etc.

Another feature may include a portable design including preset mountswhich may be in place with attachment elements (such as carabiners) fora shoulder strap, as well as a conveniently placed carry handle. Anotherfeature may include a stackable design, wherein when multipleapparatuses are stored together, they may be stacked on top of eachother, and the central safety catch of the apparatus on top (of eachcorresponding pair of apparatuses) will interconnect through a slit thatis located at the top of the corresponding bottom apparatus. Anotherfeature may include a versatile design including an apparatus able to bedeployed and safely operated on any standard gurney or hospital bed with(e.g., any size including from two inch to six inch mattress thickness)without interfering with the transport and maneuvering of the gurney orhospital bed. Another feature may include being self-contained andself-sustaining, with the apparatus supplying its own intravenous (IV)pole (e.g., to hang IV fluid bags), as well as a 3M® motor, HEPAfilters, and a battery (which may include an intrinsically safe batterywith up to eight hours or more of battery life). Another feature mayinclude a re-usable design with any or all components being re-usablebetween patients after proper disinfection; in some embodiments thedrape (e.g., a clear plastic drape, fabric, etc.) may be a one-time useitem. In some embodiments the reusable components may be disinfectedwith a variety of cleaners including hydrogen peroxide, soap, water,bleach (including in diluted form), as well as Sani-Cloth®. Theapparatus may include panels with transparent or see-through materialsuch as plastics, polycarbonates, glass, etc., which may be durable andhighly impact resistant. In some embodiment, the apparatus may usepanels having a thickness of up to ⅛″ or 1/16″ or greater. The apparatusmay be hinged (e.g., using piano or spring hinges) at the base and/orother edges. When the apparatus is assembled, the edges may be sealed(e.g., with polycarbonate channels) to ensure that the infectiousaerosolized droplets do not escape to the surrounding environment.Alignment of the panels may be achieved through various means includingusing any combination of tabs, neodymium magnets, velcro, latches, etc.to keep the center panels properly aligned over the bilateral sidepanels while also maintaining its shape. The apparatus may bedisinfected with a variety of cleaners including: hydrogen peroxide,soap & water, bleach (e.g., 10:1 dilution), and Sani-Cloth®.

Some embodiments may include unique custom designs including magnetchannels and methods of attachment. There may be custom stainless steelmagnet channels (in some examples there may be eight such channels) thatare designed to hold and channel both the north and south poles of anN52 neodymium bar magnet in one direction, towards a stainless-steelstrike plate. All stainless-steel parts may be passivated for extracorrosion resistance.

In some embodiments, there may be two magnet channels that are locatedtowards the base of the apparatus, with one attached to the frame viathe square aluminum tubes located on each side. The two correspondingstrike plates for these magnets may be attached to the outside of eachof the side panels. These magnets may serve to maintain the stability ofthe side panels as well as aid with keeping them erect and aligned whenthe apparatus is being setup and assembled.

In some embodiments, there may be two magnet channels that are locatedon the vertical backing plate with its corresponding strike plateslocated towards the base of the front panel. There may be twocorresponding strike plates located on the back of the rear panel. Thesetwo magnet channels may have a dual purpose, which may be to maintainthe stability of the front panel during assembly and use, as well asattaching to the rear panel when the apparatus is collapsed for storageto keep the apparatus from unintentionally opening.

There may be four magnets located at the bottom side of the apparatus,which serve to maintain the swing arms in position. They aid withkeeping the swing arms in place when flipped forward to stay in positionand maintain the protection of the edge of the polycarbonate apparatusthat extends out. When the swing arms are flipped backward, and theapparatus is installed on a gurney or hospital bed, the magnets keepthem stored in place. These magnets may also be replaced with springhinges that are loaded to close (or biased/tensions to close).

The lid of the box may also be held by two small magnets, or two springhinges loaded to close (or biased/tensions to close).

There may be four magnet channels that may be strategically placed onthe top of both side panels, with one towards the operator side and onetowards the patient's side, per panel. These four magnet channels may beheld in place on the polycarbonate panels via two roll pins thatpenetrate the layers of material (e.g., three layers), which may consistof two layers of the stainless-steel channel and the polycarbonate panelsandwiched in between, firmly holding them in place. Four strike plateswhich may have a similar design with the roll pins for attachment, maybe located on the far lateral sides of the lid/center panels andcorrespond to the location of the magnet channels. This system may keepthe center panels properly aligned over the bilateral side panels andmaintain the apparatus's shape and rigidity throughout use. Thesemagnets may prevent the lid from slipping and collapsing down towardsthe patient during use or transport.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a cover or drape oversome or all the structure. In some embodiments, the cover(s) may bedesigned to be draped over the top of the apparatus via the rear panel,tucked over areas of the patient's body (e.g., including the caudalregion), around the shoulders and arms, and then non-permanently lockedinside two tension locks found on both sides of the apparatus. The drapemay create a seal around the patient's upper body, containing anyinfectious aerosolized droplets that may escape, and complements theapparatus structure and filtration system in creating a negativepressure micro-environment. For example, the filtration system maycreate negative pressure (i.e., the pressure inside of the apparatus islower than the pressure outside) within the apparatus so that germs donot escape the inside into the outside environment. In some embodiments,the seal around the patient's thoracoabdominal region may not be airtight, which allows a sufficient influx of ambient air to enter and movetowards the apparatus as the filter motor and filter draw contaminatedair out of the apparatus, filtering it in the process. The drapes mayallow operators and first responders to safely perform cardiopulmonaryresuscitation (CPR), while still being protected from the patient'sinfectious or potentially infectious aerosolized droplets that are beingcompressed out upon exhalation while they are performing chestcompressions.

The base may be made up of a lightweight frame material such as aluminumwith certain components made up of stainless steel, such as the IV poleand IV pole base, as well as the mechanism that attaches the proprietaryanchor and brace system. In some embodiments, the base may maintain thestructure and rigidity of the apparatus when it is fully assembled. Thebase may be the unifying structure which allows the apparatus to besafely adapted for use on gurneys and hospital beds via its attachmentto the anchor, brace, and accessory components. The accessory componentsmay include any or all of the components other than the main structure;in some embodiments, the accessories may include the IV pole, motor,filtration system, drapes, etc. The configuration may also provideprotection and easy transport of the collapsed polycarbonate panels,filtration system, and accessory components.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may include an IV pole, as well as afilter motor (e.g., a 3M® filter motor), HEPA filters, and an intrinsicbattery (e.g., one lasting up to 8 hours or more). This configurationmay allow the negative pressure micro-environment to be maintainedthroughout the transportation of a patient on a gurney/hospital bed,without the need of an external source of suction (such as a hospital'ssuction line).

FIG. 1 is the apparatus 100 as viewed from the patient's side 102 withthe operator's side left panel 104 towards the far left end.

For reference, when viewed from the operator's perspective 104, thepanel 130 is the “right” panel, and panel 140 is the “left” panel.

The apparatus may include three access points, with the one access panel(e.g., a main access panel) (at the back from the patient's perspective102 or front from the operator's perspective 103) of the apparatus 100having the largest opening; in some embodiments the main access panel(obscured in FIG. 1 ). The auxiliary access panel 132 may measure 6″wide×8″ tall and may be custom installed depending on providerpreference on the left and/or the right side panel 130, 140. Thisauxiliary access panel 132 may permit an operator/assistant to quicklyand safely introduce necessary equipment that the operator may require,such as a stylet, bougee, laryngoscope, endotracheal tube, emergencyCPAP device, bag-valve mask (BVM), or to provide assistance. Anotheropening, arm port 134, (which may also be called the third access point)may be a semi-circular arm port 5″ in diameter, which allows anoperator/assistant to safely insert their arm into the apparatus 100 tocontinue with life-saving bag-valve mask (BVM) compressions withoutcompletely breaking the seal formed by the clear plastic drape. The mainand auxiliary access panels 132 may be designed to self-close and may bekept sealed in place by an attachment mechanism including magnets,Velcro, latches, snap fastener, etc. Both panels 132 and the arm port134 may be lined by Food & Drug Administration (FDA) grade siliconerubber which may have cutouts to accommodate the operator's arms. Thesilicone rubber templates may be held in place by a polycarbonate frame,which may be attached via thumbs screws, allowing them to be quicklyreplaced as needed. While the embodiment of FIG. 1 shows rubber flaps inthe openings auxiliary access panel 132, arm port 134, those skilled inthe art will recognize that various suitable designs may be used basedon preference and requirements. For example, in some embodiments, theopenings auxiliary access panel 132, arm port 134 may be coupled to longgloves (e.g., also used in glove boxes) such that there are no air gapsor holes. Yet other embodiments are possible using other elastic orflexible materials.

The panel 130 may include an access port 138 to install a motor (notshown) that may be used for filtering air and/or to create a negativepressure within the apparatus 100. Such port may be called a suctionport. In some examples, such as illustrated in FIG. 1 , the access port138 may be a circular port lined with a rubber grommet to install themotor. The motor may draw air out of the space within the apparatus 100.In some embodiments, the motor may be a 3M® HEPA filter motor. In someembodiments, the motor may be fixed and/or permanently attached to apanel 130, 140 with air gaps minimized using sealing material.

In some embodiments, the opposite side 140 (right side from patient'sperspective 102) may be similarly designed and a mirror image of theleft side 130, including an auxiliary access port and/or arm port. Insome embodiments, the oppose side 140 may or may not include the motorport 138. The left 130 and right 140 sides may include any combinationof the access ports based on user preference and design. For example, insome embodiments on the left panel 130 includes access ports; in otherembodiments, only the right panel 140 includes access ports. In yetother examples, there may be one access port on one side and two accessports on the other side. Any number and type of ports may be present oneither panel 130, 140.

In some embodiments, the panel 155 may have two bilateral corners 156a-b (e.g., at 45 degrees) located at the top left and top right of thepanel 155. This design may prevent the sharp corners from tearing intothe drape (e.g., clear plastic drape not shown) that is installed on theapparatus 100. It may also allow the drape to be easily folded uponitself along the edge, forming a “buffer-zone” that contributes to theseal of the apparatus 100. As illustrated in FIG. 2 , there may be twosemi-circular cutouts 157 a-b at the midline of the rear panel. Thecutouts may allow the operator to easily reach through the rear panel160 to collapse the apparatus.

Some embodiments may include the protective shield 122. When theapparatus 100 is collapsed and not in use, the L-shaped protectiveshield 122 may be flipped forward into position (as shown in FIG. 1 ) toprotect the underside of the apparatus 100 and its flex paneldeflectors. Before the apparatus 100 is fully deployed and attached to agurney or hospital bed, this protective shield may be released andpulled back towards the operator before use. This shield 122 may beswung back towards the operator, and the base 120 is placed on top of agurney or hospital bed. The shield 122 may serve a secondary function byhelping to stabilize any left and right swaying movement of theapparatus that may occur while on the gurney or hospital bed.

FIG. 2 is a view of the exemplary collapsible apparatus 100 as viewedfrom the operator's perspective. The panel 160 may be called the “rear”panel if seen from the patient's perspective or the “front” panel ifseen from the operator's perspective.

As described above, on either one of the side panels 130, 140 may beincluded an auxiliary access panel, semi-circular arm port, and atwo-inch access port lined by a rubber grommet, for placement of a motorand filter. The panel that does not contain the auxiliary access panel,semi-circular arm port, and two-inch access port, may have a six-inchfiberglass reinforced rubber silicone handle 232 attached to it, e.g.,via two barrel bolts. The handle 232 may be placed towards the operatorand in the lower half of the panel 140. The handle 232 may provide forergonomic accessibility when lifting the panel upwards to assemble.

Some embodiments may include an IV pole 210. The IV pole 210 may be madeout of metals or other solid materials including stainless steel (e.g.,304 stainless steel) providing for high corrosion resistance. The IVpole 210 may be attached to the storage box 220 through a uniquelydesigned hook and slot system that allows the IV pole 210 to be securedsafely when not in use as well as when it is erected vertically with anIV bag attached (not shown). The specially designed hook and slot systemmay prevent the IV pole 210 from coming apart from the component storagebox 220 while the apparatus is being transported. The apparatus 100 mayutilize the weight of the attached base of the apparatus and gravity tokeep the hook stabilized in the slot, unless it is manually lifted upand pushed forward out of the horizontal slot, sliding it out of theadjacent opening. Once the IV pole 210 clears the slot, it may berotated 90 degrees to the right, and the reverse operation may beperformed. The same hook on the IV pole 210 may be slipped forwardthrough the vertical slot located about an inch away, then the IV pole210 may be allowed to slide down the angle of the slot, into an adjacentslot on the right. The adjacent slot may prevent the hook from beingpushed back out of the slot, unless the entire IV pole 210 is lifted upand slid to the left against the angled slot and out of the first slot.Once the IV pole 210 is in the vertical position and ready to be used,the lid 222 of the storage box 220 is closed, and contains another slotthat wraps around the IV pole 210 itself. The slot in the lid furtherprevents the IV pole 210 from swinging/swaying while the gurney is inmotion, and in the back of an ambulance. The slot in the lid 222prevents any initial motion that could aid with the unwanted slipping ofthe hook up and out of the secured position. In addition to the slotsthat secure the IV pole 210 in place, there may also be astainless-steel base attached at the bottom of the IV pole 210, whichmay act as a counterbalance, and aid with securing the IV pole 210 bypreventing it from getting unintentionally knocked upwards duringtransport over bumps.

The embodiment may prevent unwanted and unintentional movement of the IVpole 210 while it is in the functioning, vertical position, as well asin the stored, horizontal position.

In some embodiment, the top of the IV pole 210 may have an L-shaped,90-degree angle hook 211 that IV bags can be placed on. The IV pole 210and IV hook 211 may be made of standard sized ⅜″ diameter stainlesssteel rods, which may be highly corrosion resistant. The IV hook 211diameter may be universal, allowing for the attachment of any standardmedical IV bag. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that anyof a variety of mechanisms may be used to secure the IV bag or toprovide hydration to the patient. In some embodiments where the IV bagor hydration is not necessary, the IV pole 210 may be omitted forconfigurations of the apparatus 100, or the IV pole 210 may be foldedaway in cases where the IV pole 210 is included in the configuration ofthe apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the IV pole 210 may be anintegrated and/or permanently attached component of the apparatus 100with a folding mechanism that easily folds out of the way and folds intothe extended configuration.

In some embodiments, the IV hook 211 may accommodate a liter bag of IVfluids, while other embodiments may accommodate more than one bag ofsmaller volume medications/fluid bags.

Shown on FIG. 2 are knobs or handles 240 a-b for adjusting the mountingsystem of the apparatus 100. A gurney/bed attachment mechanism 250 isalso shown. The attachment mechanism 250 is used to secure the apparatus100 to the gurney and/or bed. Those skilled in the art will recognizethat other attachment mechanisms are possible as dictated by userpreference or design. In other embodiments, the knob/handle 204 a-b maybe larger or smaller, round or other shape to cater to different users.

An operator may attend to a patient from an access port 162 (e.g., amain access port) that includes multiple hand openings on the panel 160.In some embodiments, this access port 162 may measure 18″ wide×6″ tall.This opening 162 may allow the operator to have unrestricted access tothe patient's cephalic region, providing the operator with ample room toperform various life-saving procedures without many typical constraints.The access port 162 may be designed to self-close and may be kept sealedin place by an attachment mechanism including magnets, Velcro, latches,snap fastener, etc. The access port 162 may be lined by FDA gradesilicone rubber which may have cutouts to accommodate the operator'sarms. The silicone rubber templates may be held in place by apolycarbonate frame, which may be attached via thumbs screws, allowingthem to be quickly replaced as needed. As with the auxiliary ports 134(FIG. 1 ), in some embodiments, the access port 162 may be coupled tolong gloves (e.g., also used in glove boxes) such that there are no airgaps or holes. Yet other embodiments are possible using other elastic orflexible materials.

FIG. 3 is side view of the exemplary apparatus 100, according to anembodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus 100 may include bilateralflex panel deflectors 310 located on both sides of the apparatus 100(opposite side of apparatus 100 may include similar deflector). The flexpanel deflectors 310 may be attached to the apparatus 100 by hinges andallow for the comfortable accommodation of patients with widershoulders. The flex panel deflectors 310 may aid in preventingfree-floating aerosolized droplet particles from traveling out the sidesof the apparatus 100. The flex panel deflectors 310 may be lined withrubber silicone to aid with gripping drapery that may be placed over theapparatus 100 including in the area of the deflectors 310. At the bottomof both flex panels may be ⅞″ wide cutouts 312 (opposite side ofapparatus 100 may include similar cutout) that are 2.2″ long, and angled(e.g., around 47 degrees), towards the operator side. These cutouts 312on both sides may allow for the safe passthrough of corrugatedventilation tubing (used when a patient is placed on a ventilator),oxygen tubing, IV lines, suction tubing, digital endoscope wires, andany other tubes/wires that may be used for the patient. These slots 312may be angled (e.g., at around 47 degrees) to facilitate any emergencythat could arise, requiring the entire apparatus 100 unit to be pulledbackwards and away from the patient, at a slight (e.g., around 15degree) angle. The angle may facilitate the tubes and wires to bedropped down and out of the way as the apparatus 100 is being pulledbackward, preventing them from getting snagged on the apparatus 100,which could cause them to be pulled out from the patient, causinginjury.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the side panel 130 is shown with a motor 320attached to the access port (138 of FIG. 1 ). The motor may include ahose or tubing extending from the motor for coupling to other hoses ortubing (not shown) to expel air from the apparatus 100. The IV pole 210is shown installed to hang an IV bag in this configuration. Someembodiments may include a multi-purpose bracket 330

Loosening the mounting system knobs 240′ on both sides may allow theloop slides 241 to freely slide up and down and rotate about the knobs240′. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that themounting system and loop slides may be implemented in any mannersuitable for the embodiments.

Some embodiments may include a bilateral shoulder strap mount points340, which may be attachment points located on both sides of theapparatus for carabiner attachments to a shoulder strap.

FIGS. 4A-C are a bottom view (FIG. 4A) of the exemplary apparatus 100, aside illustration (FIG. 4B) of the brace 410, and an illustration (FIG.4C) showing rotation of the brace, according to an embodiment of thedisclosure. As seen from the bottom, the apparatus 100 includes theprotective shield 122 (in the extended configuration). The protectiveshield 122 may serve another purpose of bracing the apparatus 100against a gurney. The shield 122 may be called a brace 122. When theshield 122 is folded back, the shield 122 together with the couplingplate 410 combine to capture the frame 421 of the gurney 424 (a smallsection of a gurney is shown for illustrative purposes). The shield 122pushes from the right side (as viewed from FIG. 4 ) while the couplingplate 410 pushes from the left side to capture the gurney frame 421. Insome embodiments the coupling plate 410 may be called an anchor 410.

The coupling plate 410′ may include a plate component 412 and a lowerbracket component 414.

The knob 240, loop slide, anchor 410, and brace 122 may form the gurneyattachment system (e.g., proprietary in some embodiments). The anchor410 and brace 122 together may allow the apparatus 100 to attachnon-permanently to the gurney 424 or hospital bed 422, mattress,padding, etc. (a small section of bedding is shown for illustrativepurposes) without the use of a clamp or hook. The configuration mayallow the apparatus 100 and base to be completely and immediately pulledaway from the gurney 424 and patient in the event of an emergency. Thismay be achieved by having the operator grasp the L-shaped handles foundon apparatus 100.

The anchor plate 410 may prevent the apparatus 100 from shifting backand forth, wobbling up and down, and swaying left to right while it isfully assembled on the gurney 424. The anchor 410 may be wedged inbetween the mattress 422 that the patient lies on, and the frame of thehospital bed or gurney 424. This may be a safety feature that preventsunintentional movement of the apparatus 100 while it is fully deployedwith the patient inside the apparatus 100.

The brace 122 in conjunction with the anchor 410 may encase the topportion of the gurney 424 or hospital bed's 422 structural frame(towards the side of the patient's head), preventing the apparatus 100from being unintentionally flipped backward and off of the patient whileit is in use. There may be two red thumb screws located on the crosstube that connects the anchor 122 and brace 410 to the base that may betightened once the apparatus 100 is fully assembled on the gurney 424,to prevent the tube from freely spinning. Tightening of these two redthumb screws as well as the two knobs that are on both sides of the basemay keep the base and apparatus 100 sturdily attached to the gurney 424or hospital bed 422 while it is in transport.

The brace 122 may function like a hook and prevent the apparatus fromsliding forward and down when the head of the gurney 424 or bed 422 iselevated to Fowler's position, allowing the patient to sit upright andbreathe more comfortably. The brace 122 may also assist with providinglateral stability by decreasing the amount of side-to-side rocking thatmay occur due to shifting of the patient's weight during transport,especially with the head of the gurney 424 or bed 422 elevated toFowler's position. Together, the anchor 410 and brace 122 may allow theapparatus 100 to be quickly attached to most gurneys 424 and hospitalbeds 422 and to be safely used during transport of a patient, decreasingchances of injury to the patient, first responder, or operator.

FIG. 4C shows the movement/rotation of the brace 122′ to capture theframe 421 of the gurney. The brace in the first position 122′ isextended/rotated to the far right. When the brace 122″ is folded in thesecond position 122″, it rotates towards the anchor 410. In the thirdposition 122′″, the brace 122″′ rotates to capture the frame 421 of thegurney. FIG. 4C shows the gurney frame 421 sandwiched between the brace122′″ and the plate element 412 of the anchor 410.

In the event of an emergency and immediate access to the patient isrequired, the apparatus 100 may be quickly pulled backwards and awayfrom the patient/gurney 424 (e.g., at about a 15-degree angle), via thetwo L-shaped handles located on either side of the apparatus 100, thusallowing unrestricted access to the patient within seconds. This may beaccomplished because the anchor plate 410 sits in between the gurney 424or hospital mattress 422 and the frame of the bed/gurney, utilizing theweight of the patient's upper torso and head, to apply downward pressureon the anchor 410, sandwiching it between the mattress 422 and frame421. The anchor plate 410 may also be lined with rubber silicone on theedge, to provide extra friction, preventing it from sliding aroundduring transport.

This unique safety design of the anchor 410 and brace 122 together,allow for the security and stability of the apparatus 100 on the gurney424, while also prioritizing the patient's safety in the event of anemergency.

FIGS. 5A-D are views and illustrations showing steps to collapse theapparatus 100, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with FIG.5A showing is a side view of the exemplary apparatus 100, FIG. 5Bshowing a front view (from patient's perspective) of the exemplaryapparatus 100′, FIG. 5C showing an illustration of steps 4-6, and FIG.5D showing a representation of the segments in the collapsedconfiguration. The panels of the apparatus 100 are hinged at variouspoints of the panels. Some of the panels may be completely separate fromother panels. For example, the top panel (e.g., 150 of FIG. 1 ) is notconnected or hinged to the side panels and may be completelyseparated—“C” or “U” grooves and magnets may be used to couple thesepanels together.

In the sample of FIG. 5A, the panels are hinged at the edges of thedotted line representations; for example, segment 502A is hinged at thebottom and top of the dotted line representation. Segments 502B, 502Chave multiple hinges anywhere the dotted line representation creates anangle. As illustrated, any of the panels may include multiple segmentsthat are hinged together.

In the first step of FIG. 5A, the top 502B/502C and back 502A (which mayform one contiguous piece) may be pulled up and rotated counterclockwiseas illustrated by the ‘Step 1’ arrow. The same step 1 is illustrated inFIG. 5B showing the top/back panels being pulled up and away from thetwo side panels. The top/back panels may be mated to the side panelsusing various latching or alignment elements. For example, the panelsmay be joined together with any combination of tabs, neodymium magnets,velcro, latches, etc.; these various mating elements may need to bedetached first before folding the panels out of the way so that eachstep may require multiple sub-steps. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 5A, the top panel may have ‘U’ or ‘C’ shaped groove pieces to grabonto the thin edge of the side panels and the panels may includecorresponding magnets to firmly mate together so that minor movementdoes not separate the panels. In such an example, step 1 may includedetaching the magnets, pulling the panels away from the grooves and thenpulling the top/back panel away from the side panels.

In step 2 and step 3, the side panels are folded in and down into thebase. The side panels are not hinged or permanently connected to thetop/back panel (e.g., 502A, 502B, 502C) so they may move freely andindependently of the top/back panel. Each side panel may be hinged atthe bottom/base of the respective panel so in step 2 the right panel maybe rotated counter-clockwise to fold the panel down towards the base; instep 3 the left panel may be rotated clockwise to fold the panel downtowards the base. The steps may be reversed as suitable based on userpreference and design. For example, step 2 may include the left sidebeing folded down before folding down the right side down as step 3.

Moving to FIG. 5C, the top and back panels may have multiple hinges. Thehinge elements may be connected in any suitable fashion based on userpreference and design. In the example of FIG. 5C, at step 4 the backpanel 502A′ is folded down (clockwise) and then at step 5 the top panelsegment 502B′ (which may include multiple hinged pieces) is rotatedcounter-clockwise to fold flat against the back panel 502A′. At step 6,the front/rear piece 502C′ is folded clockwise to lay flat against502B′. FIG. 5D is a representation of the panels folded and collapsed;the representation is exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

Folding the apparatus 100 out (e.g., deploying the apparatus 100 for usewith a patient) may be the reverse process from step 6 to step 1. Forexample, the apparatus 100 may being with the panels folded asrepresented in FIG. 5D and the operator (or any other person/machinecapable of handling the apparatus 100) unfolding from step to step 1.

While FIGS. 5A-D show one exemplary embodiment, those skilled in the artwill readily recognize that various implementations may be possible. Forexample, the panels and components may be hinged at any suitable points;alternatively, or additionally, the panels and components may usemechanisms other than hinges to allow the panels and component toarticular and move or fold relative to the apparatus 100. Any or alledges may be hinged or unhinged based on user preference and design.

FIG. 6 is perspective view of the exemplary apparatus in a collapsestate, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus 100in FIG. 6 is shown with the operator side 104 towards the bottom rightof the figure and the patent side 102 shown toward the top left of thefigure. The protective shield 122 is shown deployed in the example ofFIG. 6 .

FIG. 7 is front view (from the patient's perspective) of the exemplaryapparatus as used by an operator and patient of the apparatus, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 7 omits various features forsimplicity and to avoid obscuring parts of the figure—some omittedfeatures include various accessories including filters and motors,drapery over the patient. The patient 710 may be lying on a gurney orhospital bed (not shown) while receiving care from an operator 720. Thevarious ports of the apparatus provide easy access for the operator andany assistants to access the patient. While FIG. 7 shows oneconfiguration, the disclosure is not so limited. For example, asdiscussed above, the access ports may take any configuration includingembodiments with integrated gloves on the access ports.

When the patient 710 is centered and positioned comfortably on asurface, e.g., a gurney, stretcher, operating room (OR) table, theoperator 720 opens the apparatus 100 and carefully aligns it above thepatient 710 while ensuring complete coverage of the patient's 710 head.There are two safety hooks located bilaterally on the operator 720 sideof the apparatus, providing a gap (e.g., 1½″×⅜″) for the operator 720 tosecure the apparatus 100 down to the surface (e.g., gurney/stretcher)using the “rope” of their choice. In some embodiments, bungee cord maybe used. The safety hooks hold the apparatus 100 down to the surface(e.g., gurney/stretcher) in the event of sudden jarring or accidentaltipping of the surface (e.g., gurney or stretcher). The use of thesafety hooks is required for use in the transportation setting due tothe smaller stretcher width (e.g., 24″) and the greater risk of tippingthe apparatus 100 over during the transportation process.

Once the apparatus 100 is properly positioned, an assistant may placeclear vinyl drape (e.g., 96″×36″) over the patient's 710thoracic/abdominal region while aligning the marked alignment elements(not shown) of the apparatus with the target corners on both sides ofthe front lid of the apparatus 100. The operator 720 must ensure thatthe drape is centered and wraps completely over the top of the lid inorder to form a “pseudo” seal, by creating a physical obstacle forascending aerosolized droplets. The assistant then hands the left cornerof the drape to the operator 720, where the operator 720 pulls the drapetaut and slides it in between the gap of the protruding L-shaped tensionlock and the mattress of the surface (e.g., gurney/stretcher), creatingthe tension for the 2-part locking system. The action is followedthrough by pulling the drape thru a ⅛″ gap located on the medial side ofthe left L-shaped handle. This system creates sufficient tension to lockthe drape in place, while the apparatus 100 is in use. The same stepsmay be repeated for the right side.

Some embodiments may provide for ample interior room. The interiordimensions of the apparatus may be configured to provide the amplespace; in some examples the apparatus may measure up to21.44″×21.88″×21.63″ (1×w×h) or larger, which may provide ample room foran operator to freely maneuver medical instruments inside, such as abougee or stylet without issue.

Some embodiments may include bilateral tension locks/handles. There maybe two L-shaped handles strategically located on both sides of the base.These may be lined with closed cell silicone foam on the inside/edges,allowing the operator to easily slide in and secure the drape. After thedrape is folded over the top of the rear panel and folded upon itselfover the corners of the rear panel, the remaining length of the drapemay be pulled taut and slid in between the silicone foam on both sides.This tightly secures the drape by pinching it between the two layers ofclosed cell silicone foam, utilizing these bilateral tension points asanchors and the corners of the rear panel as the fulcrum. By usingtension to secure the position of the drape, instead of adhesives,buttons, clamping, etc., this allows for additional safety for thepatient in the event of an emergency. If only the drape needed to beremoved for immediate access to the patient, the drape may be quicklypulled up and forward from the top center section, right above the rearpanel. The weight of the apparatus would resist the force of the drapebeing pulled away and the drape would slide out from between thesilicone foam. By not securing the drape using adhesives, clamps,buttons, etc., the drape won't snag on the apparatus as it is beingpulled away, which could jar the patient during the process.Additionally, the anchor and brace would also act as a secondary safetynet, ensuring that the entire unit does not get lifted up when the drapeis removed, potentially injuring the patient.

The placement of the handles may allow the operator to properly adjustthe positioning of the apparatus once it is placed on the gurney, aswell as allow the operator to quickly pull the apparatus back and awayfrom the patient and gurney, in the event of any emergency. They mayalso allow for easy transporting/relocating of the apparatus while it isfully assembled.

Some embodiments may include bilateral safety mounts. Found towards thepatient side, and on both sides of the base may be two gurney mountswhich hug the gurney mattress from both sides, keeping the apparatusaligned with the mattress and preventing the apparatus from sliding leftto right (side to side) during transport or if the apparatus isaccidentally jarred during use. These mounts are lined with siliconerubber to provide additional friction against the cloth material on themattress, decreasing any unwanted movement of the unit.

Some embodiments may include bilateral locks. The mechanism thatattaches the anchor and brace system to the base is adjusted and lockedby bilateral handles which ensure that the distance between the bottomof the base and the anchor plate remain the same at all times. Adjustingthe bilateral locks may allow the operator to compensate for thedifferent thicknesses found in a variety of gurney/hospital bedmattresses that the apparatus may be installed on. This adjustment mayallow the apparatus to be installed on a wide variety of mattresses inthe outpatient and inpatient setting. Most standard gurneys may have atwo-inch-thick mattress, while most hospital beds may have a six inchthick mattress, both of which may easily be accommodated. Theembodiments are flexible and may accommodate gurneys, beds, and otherbody support systems of any size according to preference and designrequirements.

Some embodiments may include a central safety catch, including a2″×8″×⅛″ aluminum lip that may extend downward from the base's frame andcatch onto the head of the mattress. This may prevent the apparatus frommoving forward when the head of the gurney or hospital bed is elevated,allowing the patient to sit upright and breathe more comfortably whilemaintaining enclosure integrity.

Some embodiments may include a storage box at the front of the base. Thestorage box may include specifically designed mounts for storage of amotor, battery, filters, and IV pole. The apparatus may havespecifically designed slots that anchor the IV pole in a storedposition, when not in use, as well as slots for an upright mount of theIV pole when the apparatus is fully deployed and an IV bag is attached.The lid of the box may have a 3/16″ deep by 8″ wide slot towards therear, which may allow for two collapsed apparatuses to be stacked on topof each other securely. The slot accommodates the central safety catch(discussed above) that protrudes downward from another apparatus,securely keeping the two collapsed apparatuses together, preventing themfrom slipping off of one another when stored away on a shelf.

Some embodiments may include a handle, including a 6″ wide handle,located on the operator side of the apparatus, at the bottom of thefront of the storage box, allowing for easy carrying of the apparatuswhen it is fully collapsed. The handle may be attached to the frame ofthe entire unit, giving the user a sturdy and well-balanced position tohold the apparatus from.

In some embodiments, clear vinyl drape may be used as cover for theapparatus. In other embodiments, painters cover may be used in the eventthat the original drape is damaged or dirty. Once the clear drape issecured in place, the operator of the apparatus may proceed to intubatethe patient if that is the next step. The front panel of the apparatushas a horizontal flip up access door (e.g., measuring 6″×18″ to providesuitable access) and when opened fully (e.g., 180 deg), can be held openby making contact with the magnet above it (e.g., 3″ in someembodiments). This rectangular access door allows thephysician/paramedic to reach their arm inside the apparatus andcomfortably intubate the patient while protected behind the clearacrylic. The access door (e.g., 6″×18″) has two layers of clear vinyl onthe inside of the apparatus. The first layer is precut with twohorizontal cross-shaped patterns, measuring, e.g., 6″ apart. The secondlayer of vinyl measures, e.g., 11″×20″ and acts as a secondary barrierto help reduce the amount of aerosolized droplet particles that maytravel/escape through the two arm openings in the first layer of clearvinyl, that is being used by the physician/paramedic during theprocedure. The wide horizontal opening allows for much improved lateralmobility of the physician's or paramedic's forearms during theintubation or extubation procedure. With every physician and paramedicunique and different, the horizontal opening enables the operator tomore naturally and comfortably perform the intubation procedure, leadingto a safer, and more successful outcome. The ease of use that comes withthe increased lateral mobility provides the physician with increasedmaneuverability of their tools, and increased range of motion (ROM) intheir forearms and wrists.

The smaller top panel is angled at, e.g., 26 degrees to reduce theamount of glare from light directly above, increasing the operator'svisual field. The angled panel also serves to promote air circulationwithin the apparatus, towards the suction vent located at the top of theback panel, by decreasing the amount of stagnant air that accumulates inthe corners of the apparatus. The larger top panel is a flat surfacemeasuring, e.g., 11″×22″ that doubles as a workspace area, if items needto be placed there for upcoming use.

There is a 2″ acrylic lip that extends perpendicularly on the end ofboth of the side panels. This lip is 2″ extension beyond the “soft”width, that is one piece and bent 90 deg, thermoformed. This 2″ lipfunctions as an aerosol deflector and prevents the free-flow movement ofany infectious aerosolized particles from escaping the containmentfield, which is the area contained within the apparatus and clear vinyldrape. The 2″ lip physically prevents the accidental spread ofinfectious aerosolized droplets from travelling freely between the twoside panels of the apparatus. The 2″ lips that extend also serve as thefront stabilizers of the apparatus, by creating a wider base footprinton the gurney and increasing the safety and security of the apparatus.

The back panel may be angled, e.g., at 45 degrees to increase the volumeof air exposed to the suction port when in use. The suction port isdirected towards the general area of the patient's mouth and nose, toincrease the chances of sucking up and filtering the expelledrespiratory droplets.

To accommodate multiple patient sizes, the left and right panels in the“soft” width region may flex outward to accommodate patients with widershoulders. The hinges on these panels may be spring loaded and returnthe panel back to its original position when the apparatus is removed.

The apparatus may be compatible with most standard gurneys/stretchers24″ and above, owing to its compact, yet versatile size.

The apparatus may fold down to a height of only, e.g., 5½″, allowing itto be easily transported or stored away until needed. Due to its compactsize, the apparatus may be taken into the field and setup by paramedicsand emergency medical technician (EMTs) after they make the initialcontact with the potentially infected patient. When the patient istransported from the ambulance into the emergency department (ED), theapparatus contains and isolates the patients' airborne respiratorydroplets, thereby minimizing the risk of exposure to numerous healthcareprofessionals. Once the patient is admitted, the apparatus can beswapped out to the one the hospital uses, if they have their own, or theparamedics can set up an exchange plan with their local hospitals, tofurther minimize exposure during transfer of the apparatus.

In some embodiments, the self-contained apparatus may collapse to aheight of only, e.g., 5½″ and expands to a height of approximate 22″when in use. The apparatus may maintain a base footprint of about23″×23″. When multiple apparatuses are stored in their collapsed state,the apparatuses may interlock when folded and stacked upon one another,allowing for better organization.

The triangular shaped base corners of the apparatus may aid with theoverall stability of the structure of the apparatus, while also creatinga bottom cover for the trimmed corners of the stretchers/gurneys, whichwould otherwise be left open. The baseboard corners in the apparatus mayallow the apparatus and the patient to be closer to the operator of theapparatus, leading to an improved field of vision of the patient'sairways. This also allows the operator to maintain better ergonomics,reducing neck and back strain from reaching forward and hunched over.

Some embodiments may include two safety catches located at the bottom ofthe front of the operator panel designed to prevent the apparatus fromsliding down the gurney/stretcher mattress when the head of thegurney/stretcher is elevated. The safety catch may also accommodategurneys/ambulance cots with mattress head widths narrower than 8″,allowing the narrower mattresses to slide in between the safety catches,preventing the apparatus from sliding down into the patient when thehead of the gurney/stretcher is elevated.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary flow diagram illustrating methods for assemblingthe exemplary portable collapsible air isolation apparatus. Theapparatus may be the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 . The method may beperformed by an operator, an assistant, or any person capable ofhandling the apparatus. In some embodiments, an automated attendant, amachine, a robot, etc. may perform any or all of the steps of FIG. 8 .The person or automated entity performing the steps may be called the“assembler.”

The method may include, at step 810 providing a collapsible boxstructure. The collapsible box structure may be the apparatus 100 ofFIG. 1 . In some examples, the structure may be partially assembled withall hinges installed such that only folding/folding and minor steps suchas aligning mating points are needed. In some examples, the structuremay be provided in any unassembled form including completely unassembled(hinges not screwed, no items fastened, etc.) as a kit. In the exampleswhere the structure is partially or entirely unassembled (e.g., providedas a kit), the assembler may perform additional steps (e.g., screwing inattachments/accessories, joining various elements, etc.). In someexamples, the structure may have been previously used and folded forstorage.

The method may include, at step 820 folding out the structure toassemble the structure for use with a patient. Step 820 may berepresented by the reverse process of FIGS. 5D-A with the structurebeginning in the folded state (e.g., FIG. 6 and FIG. 5D) and proceedingbackwards from step 6 to step 1.

The method may include, at step 830 determining whether accessories areneeded for the apparatus 100. Some of the accessories may includedrapery, a motor, filter, IV pole (for hanging an IV bag), etc. If anyaccessories are needed, the method may proceed to step 840. If noaccessories are needed, the method may proceed to step 850.

The method may include, at step 840, attaching accessories to theapparatus 100. Some of the accessories may include drapery, a motor,filter, IV pole (for hanging an IV bag), etc. In the case of the IVpole, some embodiments of the IV pole may be attached as illustrated inFIG. 2 , e.g., by using the hook and slot system. Drapery may be placedon apparatus 100 to cover any or all portions of the apparatus 100including over the patient areas.

The method may include, at step 850, deploying the structure. Deploymentmay include using the structure in any of the suitable medical or othersettings including on a gurney, hospital, other medical facility, etc.In the case of use on a gurney, the structure may be secured onto thegurney, e.g., as provided in FIGS. 4A-C and the associated description.A patient may be placed inside the structure, e.g., as provided in FIG.7 and the associated description.

In some embodiments, optional steps during or after step 850 may includeproviding a patient for the structure, and positioning or placing thepatient within the structure.

FIG. 9 is another exemplary flow diagram illustrating methods fordisassembling the exemplary portable collapsible air isolationapparatus. The apparatus may be the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 . The methodmay be performed by an operator, an assistant, or any person capable ofhandling the apparatus. In some embodiments, an automated attendant, amachine, a robot, etc. may perform any or all of the steps of FIG. 9 .The person or automated entity performing the steps may be called the“disassembler.”

The method may include, at step 910 providing an assembled collapsiblebox structure. The collapsible box structure may be the apparatus 100 ofFIG. 1 . In some examples, the assembled structure may have beendeployed, e.g., for use with a patient undergoing medical treatment. Insome examples, assembled structure may have been deployed, e.g., for usewith a gurney or medical bed, etc. In some embodiments, optional stepsduring or before step 910 may include removing a patient from thestructure, and/or detaching the structure from frame(s) such as agurney, bed, mattress, etc.

The method may include, at step 920 the method may determine whether thestructure has accessories. If the structure has accessories, the methodmay proceed to step 930. If the structure does not have accessories, themethod may proceed to step 940.

The method may include, at step 930, detaching accessories from thestructure. Some of the accessories may include drapery, a motor, filter,IV pole (for hanging an IV bag), etc. In the case of the IV pole, someembodiments of the IV pole may be detached as illustrated in FIG. 2 ,e.g., by using the hook and slot system. Drapery may be removed from thestructure that was used to cover any or all portions of the structureincluding over the patient areas.

The method may include, at step 940 collapsing or folding down thestructure to disassemble the structure, e.g., for storage,transportation, to reduce the footprint, etc. Step 940 may berepresented by the process of FIGS. 5A-D with the structure beginning inthe deployed state (e.g., FIG. 5A) and proceeding from step 1 to step 6.In some embodiments, step 940 may include using a protective shield(e.g., 122 of FIG. 1 ); for example, the L-shaped protective shield maybe flipped forward into position (as shown in FIG. 1 ) to protect theunderside of the structure and its flex panel deflectors.

In some embodiments, optional steps (e.g., during or after step 940) mayinclude stacking the structures together, e.g., for storage,transportation, or to conserve space, etc.

It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in theprocesses disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Basedupon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order orhierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Further, somesteps may be combined or omitted. The accompanying method claims presentelements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to belimited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

FIG. 10 is an alternative embodiment 1000 of FIG. 1 showing aperspective view of an exemplary portable collapsible air isolationapparatus for treatment of patients with respiratory symptoms, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 2 showing a view of theexemplary apparatus as viewed from the operator's perspective, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 12 is an alternative embodiment1200 of FIG. 3 showing a side view of the exemplary apparatus, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 13A is an alternativeembodiment of FIG. 4A showing a bottom view of the exemplary apparatus,according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 4C showing another sideprofile illustration showing rotation of the brace component, accordingto an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 15 shows a side view of theapparatus including the Bianca Box 1500. FIG. 16 shows a side view ofthe apparatus including the Bianca Box 1500 in another configuration.FIG. 17 shows another view of the apparatus including the Bianca Box.

In FIGS. 10-14 , similar components are labeled with the same numbers asthose found in FIGS. 1-4C. The descriptions of the same numbers areomitted for brevity.

The apparatus which may be called a BIANCA Box may be comprised of (7)polycarbonate panels which are assembled to construct the isolation &containment structure with accompanying plastic drape. The base whichmay be called a BIANCA Base may include an aluminum base frame (withcorresponding 3M® storage box) which provides rigidity and structuralsupport for the attached BIANCA Box. BIANCA Box and Base together may becalled the BIANCA Box unit. The BIANCA Anchor plate (anchor plate) 1301may be a flat metal plate that is wedged in between the gurney orhospital bed mattress and its corresponding frame. The BIANCA brace(brace) 1302 may be an L-shaped metal plate with minimum inside heightof one and a half inches, that interlocks with the BIANCA Anchor to bewelded together. The BIANCA Box may include the BIANCA Anchor and Brace1301, 1302.

In the above embodiments of FIGS. 10-14 , the apparatus may include afastening system or a mounting system. This system may be called aUniversal Gurney Fastening System (UGFS). The UGFS may be is comprisedof:

-   -   1. BIANCA Anchor plate    -   2. BIANCA Brace    -   3. Center safety catch (backing plate extension from BIANCA Base        that interlocks with the BIANCA Anchor)    -   4. (2) Safety skid plates (attached to BIANCA Base)    -   5. Tubular pivoting crossbar with two locking thumb screws    -   6. (2) Slotted adjustable tension plates    -   7. (2) Locking Tension knobs

The Universal Gurney Fastening System (UGFS) may be designed to attachand stabilize the BIANCA Box or any other apparatus, in some embodimentsnon-permanently, and in some embodiments without a closed loop fasteningstyle, to a gurney (e.g. stretcher, hospital bed, surgical bed,ambulance cot, or similar 4 wheeled device with a mattress and frame)with or without the presence of a patient being transported. The UGFSmay be primarily composed of two main components, the

BIANCA Anchor and the BIANCA Brace. Together, they allow the entireBIANCA Box unit to be quickly and securely attached to any ambulancecot, gurney, stretcher, surgical bed, or hospital bed, with a 2″-6″(length of adjustable tension bars can be modified according todifferent thickness requirements) mattress height.

This unique system may allow for safe use of the BIANCA Box unit inmultiple situations including, during emergency medical transport in theback of an ambulance, helicopter, plane, or boat, during maneuvering ofa hospital bed/gurney, and while the bed is stationary. It keeps theBIANCA Box unit stable and prevents it from falling over during vehiclemaneuvers, as well as during transport of a patient into and out of theambulance or any other mode of transportation such as a plane,helicopter, or boat.

The UGFS prevents the BIANCA Box unit or other apparatus from slidingforward and down when the head of the bed/gurney is elevated to fowler'sposition (45-60 degrees), which is the optimum position for a patient inrespiratory distress. This position decreases the weight exerted on apatient's lungs thereby promoting efficient oxygenation through improvedchest expansion. Fowler's position permits a patient in respiratorydistress to breathe easier and more comfortably.

In the event of an emergency and immediate access to the patient isrequired, the entire BIANCA Box unit can be quickly pulled backwards andaway from the patient and gurney at approximately a 10-15-degree angle,without difficulty or having to unlock, unhook, or unlatch anyfasteners. This action is performed via the two handles located oneither side of the BIANCA Box unit and allows unrestricted access to thepatient within (2) seconds.

This proprietary fastening system attaches to all types of ambulancecots (including FERNO®& Stryker®), gurneys, stretchers, and hospitalbeds. In summary, the UGFS allows the BIANCA Box or other attachedapparatus, to be safely operated during transport with or without apatient, decreasing chances of injury to the patient, operator, firstresponder, or healthcare provider.

The UGFS also increases structural support for the attached BIANCA Baseor other apparatus by providing additional rigidity to the frame whichdecreases the effect of torsional forces exerted upon it. Thisadditional rigidity in the BIANCA Base translates to increasedstructural support to the flexible and highly impact resistantpolycarbonate panels that comprise the BIANCA Box.

The UGFS can also be used in non-mobile applications, such as astationary bed, or any place where stability and quick access arerequired. The length of the slotted adjustable tension plates can beincreased or decreased as necessary to accommodate various thicknessrequirements. The size of the UGFS can be scaled to accommodate smalleror larger applications, including mobile or non-mobile. The UGFS mayalso be applied vertically with modifications.

The BIANCA Anchor and Brace 1300 may be attached to the BIANCA Base as auniversal gurney fastening system, comprising of two main components,the BIANCA Anchor and Brace. Together, the BIANCA Anchor and Brace allowthe BIANCA Box unit to be quickly and non-permanently (without the useof a clamp, latch, lock, hook, cable, or any othersemi-permanent/permanent fastening mechanism) attached to most gurneysand hospital beds, allowing it to be safely used during transport of apatient, which decreases chances of injury to the patient, firstresponder, and healthcare provider. Its design allows the BIANCA Box andBase to be completely and immediately pulled away from the gurney andpatient in the event of an emergency. This is achieved by having theoperator grasp the L-Shaped handles found on both sides of the BIANCABox unit. The BIANCA Anchor and Brace are two separate pieces that aredesigned to interlock and be welded permanently together. The BIANCAAnchor is quickly installed by wedging the anchor plate underneath thegurney or hospital bed mattress at the top towards where the patienthead will be located, while the BIANCA Brace captures the frame of thegurney or hospital bed underneath.

In the event of an emergency and immediate access to the patient isrequired, the BIANCA box can be quickly pulled backwards and away fromthe patient/gurney at about a 15-degree angle, via the two L-shapedhandles located on either side, thus allowing unrestricted access to thepatient within two seconds. This is accomplished because the anchorplate sits in between the gurney or hospital mattress and the frame ofthe bed/gurney, utilizing the weight of the patient's upper body toapply downward pressure on the Anchor, sandwiching it between themattress and frame. Therefore, when the anchor plate and brace is pulledbackwards and away from the top of the gurney/hospital bed, it is freeto slide out without having to loosen any fastener or connections. Thisunique safety design of the BIANCA Anchor and Brace together, allow forthe security and stability of the BIANCA Box unit on the gurney, whilealso prioritizing the patient's safety in the event of an emergency.

The BIANCA Anchor and Brace are directly attached to the tubularpivoting crossbar (with two locking thumb screws) that is fixed to twoslotted adjustable tension plates (one found per side). The slots inthese adjustable tension plates correspond with the threads of twolocking tension knobs, found on each side of the BIANCA Base. Tighteningof these locking tension knobs, ultimately affixes the BIANCA Anchor andBrace to the BIANCA Base.

The BIANCA Anchor 1301 may include an anchor plate as an aluminum plate(could be titanium or stainless steel in the future for increasedstrength, durability, and reduction in weight) that is specificallydesigned to slide in between the mattress and metal frame of a gurney,ambulance cot, or hospital bed. Because it is attached to the BIANCA Boxabove, it is subjected to left and right twisting motions which couldcause deformity to its shape. The shape of the anchor plate is designedto withstand torsional forces from all directions to keep it straightand aligned flat in between the mattress and its frame. It has a roundedshape at the end which allows it to be wedged like a plate, in betweenthe mattress and frame. Some ambulance cots have shoulder straps thatanchor at the top of where the shoulders are normally located (when thepatient is laying flat) into the frame beneath it. This causes an issuefor a large plate to be inserted without interfering with the safetypoints/anchors where the shoulder straps attach. The BIANCA Anchor platesolves this issue with its rounded design and tapered sides, allowingthe plate to be inserted in between the shoulder straps withoutaffecting the safety harness that secures the patient to the frame ofambulance cot during transport.

The size and location of the BIANCA Anchor plate is designed to directlycorrespond with the patient's head and shoulder region on the top sideof the mattress. This design utilizes the upper body weight of thepatient to keep the BIANCA Box unit stable. The patient's weight keepsthe mattress down, which keeps the BIANCA Anchor plate flat and flushwith the mattress and ambulance cot frame. The anchor plate prevents theBIANCA Box unit from shifting back and forth, wobbling up and down, andswaying left to right while it is fully assembled on the gurney orhospital bed. The BIANCA Anchor is wedged in between the mattress thatthe patient lays on, and the frame of the hospital bed or gurney. Thedownforce exerted by the weight of the patient's upper body istranslated to the mattress, which keeps the anchor plate flat and flushwith the gurney or hospital bed frame. With the anchor plate flat, thetubular pivoting crossbar and all attached components including theBIANCA Base and BIANCA Box are also maintained flat and flush with thegurney or hospital bed

frame. Furthermore, the anchor plate has a slot in the center thatinterlocks with the center safety catch, which is an extension from thecenter backing plate of the BIANCA Base. Once interlocked, and thepatient is strapped down, and the two locking thumb screws aretightened, the BIANCA Box unit cannot be rotated backwards due to theBIANCA Anchor and Brace capturing the gurney or hospital bed frame. Theinterlocking of these two pieces prevents the entire unit from flippingbackwards and off the gurney or hospital bed preventing any possibleinjury or harm to the operators or patient. This safety feature preventsunintentional movement of the box while it is fully deployed with thepatient inside the BIANCA Box.

The outer edge of the BIANCA Anchor is lined with high-temperaturesilicone rubber for edge protection and add friction between themattress above and metal frame below it, which decreases sliding aroundduring transport.

The BIANCA Brace 1302 used in conjunction with the anchor plate encasesthe top portion of the gurney or hospital bed's structural frame(towards the side of the patient's head), preventing the box from beingunintentionally flipped backwards and off the patient while it is inuse. It prevents the BIANCA Box unit from shifting weight left or rightbecause it encompasses the frame of the gurney or hospital bed. TheBIANCA Brace also assists with providing lateral stability by decreasingthe amount of side-to-side rocking that may occur due to shifting of thepatient's weight during transport, especially with the head of thegurney or bed elevated to Fowler's position. The BIANCA Anchor and Braceare fixed to the tubular pivoting crossbar in the center.

The BIANCA Brace begins as a flat sheet of metal that is designed to bebent at a 90-degree angle, creating an L-shape with a minimum innerheight of one and a half inches. This new L-shaped brace is interlockedand welded to the BIANCA Anchor. Once these two pieces are permanentlyinterlocked together, a C-Channel is formed. This C-Channel will have aminimum gap of 1.5″ to accommodate a variety of gurney or hospital metalbed frames. The C-Channel effectively wraps around 75% of the square ortubular metal frame of the gurney or hospital bed, limiting its mobilityand the directions that it can move in. The C-Channel effectively onlyallows movement in one direction, which when mounted at the head of thegurney/bed is backwards towards the operator of the BIANCA Box unit. Thebrace functions like a hook and prevents the BIANCA Box unit fromsliding forward and down when the head of the gurney or hospital bed iselevated to fowler's position, which allows the patient to sit uprightand breathe more comfortably.

The center safety catch 1303 (backing plate extension from BIANCA Basethat interlocks with the BIANCA Anchor) may be an aluminum lip thatextends downward from the BIANCA Base's backing plate and catches thehead of the mattress. This prevents the box from moving forward when thehead of the gurney or hospital bed is elevated to fowler's position,allowing the patient to sit upright and breathe more comfortably whilemaintaining enclosure integrity. The center safety catch also interlockswith a slot in the BIANCA Anchor, preventing the entire BIANCA Box unitfrom rotating backwards off of the gurney or hospital bed.

The (2) Safety skid plates 1304 (attached to BIANCA Base) may be foundtowards the patient side, and on both sides of the BIANCA Base are twogurney skid plates which hug the gurney mattress from both sides,keeping the box aligned with the mattress and preventing the box fromsliding left to right (side to side) during transport or if the box isaccidentally jarred during use. These mounts are lined with siliconerubber to provide additional friction against the cloth-like/texturedmaterial of the mattress, decreasing any unwanted movement of the unit.

The tubular pivoting crossbar 1305 with two (2) locking thumb screws(see below) is described next. The tubular pivoting crossbar is made upof a smaller diameter, stainless steel, inner tube with a marginallylarger diameter, aluminum, outer tube which encases the inner tube likea sheath with approximately a small air gap in between the two tubes.The stainless steel inner tube is permanently affixed to the stainlesssteel, slotted adjustable tension plates on both ends, while thealuminum outer tube is permanently affixed to the backside of thealuminum BIANCA Anchor and Brace in the center. The small air gap inbetween the two tubes allows the outer tube to freely pivot 360 degreesaround the inner tube, unobstructed. The stainless steel, slottedadjustable tension plates are attached to the BIANCA Base via thelocking tension knobs which travel through their slots and ultimatelythreaded into the nuts located in inferior support of the BIANCA Base.The purpose of this pivoting mechanism is to allow the operator of theBIANCA Box unit to easily maneuver and slide the attached BIANCA Anchorplate in between the gurney or hospital bed mattress and its frame.

Only the outer aluminum tube has two evenly spaced holes with a diameterthat corresponds with the threaded inner diameter of two nuts that havebeen welded on the outside. Two locking thumbscrews are threaded throughthese nuts and when tightened down, the outer aluminum tube no longerpivots freely around the inner tube and is locked in place untilloosened. Unlocking of these locking thumbscrews, allows the BIANCAAnchor and Brace to be freely maneuvered to accommodate differencesbetween various ambulance cots, gurneys, or hospital bed manufacturers.

The (2) Locking thumb screws 1305 a is described next. Two red thumbscrews located on the tubular pivoting crossbar that connects the BIANCAAnchor and Brace to the BIANCA Base. These need to be tightened once thebox is fully assembled on the gurney, to prevent the outer tube fromunwanted pivoting around the inner tube while the BIANCA Box unit is inuse. Tightening of these two red thumb screws as well as the two lockingtension knobs that are on both sides of the BIANCA Base, keeps the baseand box sturdily attached to the gurney or hospital bed while it is intransport.

The (2) Slotted adjustable tension plates 1306 is described next. Twoslotted stainless steel plates are fixed to the tubular pivotingcrossbar, with one on each side. The slots in the center of the platerun almost the entire length of the plate and its width corresponds withthe thread thickness of the locking tension knobs. The length of theslot allows the BIANCA Anchor and Brace to accommodate various mattressheights. To accommodate a thicker mattress, the entire anchor and braceunit can be slid downward, widening the gap between the anchor plate andthe bottom of the BIANCA Base. If a thinner mattress is utilized, thenthe entire anchor and brace can be slid upward, narrowing the gapbetween the anchor plate and the bottom of the BIANCA Base. Thismechanism attaches the BIANCA Anchor and Brace system to the BIANCA Baseand allows the operator to adjust the UGFS to accommodate varyingmattress thicknesses. Once the desired mattress thickness is adjustedfor, the system is locked in place by tightening the two locking tensionknobs, on either side of the BIANCA Base. This ensures that the distancebetween the bottom of the BIANCA Base and the BIANCA Anchor plateremains exactly where they need to at all times, so that the BIANCA Boxdoes not lift away from the BIANCA Anchor and Brace if the gurney goesover a bump, or the ambulance it is being transported in, goes over abump in the road.

Adjusting locking tension knobs allows the operator to compensate forthe different thicknesses found on a wide variety of gurney/hospital bedmattresses that the BIANCA Box can be installed on. Most standardgurneys have a 2″ thick mattress, while most hospital beds have a 5-6″thick mattress, both of which can easily be accommodated.

The (2) Locking tension knobs 1307 are described next. Two studdedtension knobs, one on each side of the BIANCA Base, are passed throughthe slot in the adjustable tension plates and are threaded into nutslocated on the inferior support of the BIANCA Base. The location ofthese nuts are aligned at specific points so that when the lockingtension knobs are tightened, the following occur: the BIANCA Anchorinterlocks with the Center safety catch and together the BIANCA Anchorand Brace lie flush with the gurney or hospital mattress and its metalframe.

These two locking tension knobs must be engaged prior to operation ofthe BIANCA Box or movement of the gurney or hospital bed, in order toensure that the BIANCA Box unit is properly secured to the frame of thegurney or hospital bed. These locking tension knobs are not required tobe loosened prior to emergency removal of the BIANCA Box unit. The knobscan also be handles, star grips, knurled grips, or any type of componentthat provides leverage.

In some embodiments, the UGFS may permit:

-   -   1. Quick attachment to gurneys, stretchers, hospital beds, and        ambulance cots with various mattress heights ranging from 2-6″    -   2. Safe operation while maneuvering the ambulance cot,        gurney/stretcher, or hospital bed during patient transport    -   3. Immediate patient access in the event of an emergency without        having to unhook, unlock, unclamp, unlatch any fasteners or use        of any other permanent/semi-permanent fastening mechanism.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the various aspects described herein. Variousmodifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilledin the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied toother aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to theaspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistentwith the language claims, wherein reference to an element in thesingular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specificallyso stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically statedotherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. All structural andfunctional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects describedthroughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known tothose of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein byreference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover,nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the publicregardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in theclaims. No claim element is to be construed as a means plus functionunless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

What is claimed is:
 1. A collapsible isolation apparatus used fortreating a person, the collapsible isolation apparatus comprising: acollapsible frame comprising a base and a plurality of rigid or softpanel elements at least partially enclosing a volume of space, whereineach of the plurality of rigid or soft panel elements is foldably hingedto at least one of the base or another of the rigid or soft panelelements, and wherein at least one panel element of the plurality ofrigid or soft panel elements comprises an open space for mounting amotor for moving air; a mounting system attached to the base, themounting system comprising: a coupling anchor plate with a slot, a bracefor securing the apparatus to a patient transportation device, a centersafety catch comprising a backing plate extension from the base, whereinthe backing plate extension interlocks with the slot of the couplinganchor plate, wherein the brace interlocks to the anchor plate forming aC-channel that provides a interconnection to the patient transportationdevice, at least two safety skid plates attached to the base of theapparatus on opposing sides of the base; a tubular pivoting crossbarwith at least two fastening screws, wherein the fastening screws arelocated on the crossbar that connects the anchor plate and the brace tothe base; at least two slotted adjustable tension plates fixed to thetubular pivoting crossbar one on each opposing side of the crossbar,wherein the anchor plate and the brace are directly attached to thetubular pivoting crossbar with the at least two fastening screws,wherein the crossbar is fixed to the two slotted adjustable tensionplates; and at least two locking tension knobs, wherein the slottedadjustable tension plates are attached to the base via the lockingtension knobs, wherein the tubular pivoting crossbar includes an outertube which encases coaxially an inner tube in a manner allowing an airgap in between the outer tub and the inner tube that permit the crossbarto pivot, wherein the inner tube is permanently affixed to the slottedadjustable tension plates at both ends of the tubular pivoting crossbar,while the outer tube is permanently affixed to a backside of the anchorplate and the brace.
 2. The collapsible isolation apparatus of claim 1,wherein each of a left side panel element, a right side panel element,and a rear panel element is foldably hinged to the base, and wherein therear panel element is foldably hinged to a top panel element.
 3. Thecollapsible isolation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rear panelelement comprises an access port including a flap that swings open andclosed by a hinged joint, the access port configured for an operator toprovide medical care to the person within the collapsible isolationapparatus.
 4. The collapsible isolation apparatus of claim 1, whereineach of the plurality of rigid or soft panel elements comprisesubstantially translucent surfaces.
 5. The collapsible isolationapparatus of claim 4 further comprising at least one air filter coupledto the motor.
 6. The collapsible isolation apparatus of claim 4, whereinthe motor comprises a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtermotor.
 7. The collapsible isolation apparatus of claim 1, wherein thepatient transportation device is one of a gurney, a stretcher, ahospital bed, a surgical bed, an ambulance cot, or a similarfour-wheeled device with a mattress and frame.
 8. The collapsibleisolation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an intravenous (IV)pole coupled to the base for attaching to an IV bag.
 9. The collapsibleisolation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the collapsible frame comprisesan open side without a panel element, and wherein the collapsibleisolation apparatus further comprises a flexible transparent coverenclosing most or substantially all of the open side.
 10. A method fortreating a person using a collapsible isolation apparatus, the methodcomprising: providing the collapsible isolation apparatus, the apparatuscomprising: a collapsible frame comprising a base and a plurality ofrigid or soft panel elements at least partially enclosing a volume ofspace, wherein each of the plurality of rigid or soft panel elements isfoldably hinged to at least one of the base or another of the rigid orsoft panel elements, and wherein at least one panel element of theplurality of rigid or soft panel elements comprises an open space formounting a motor for moving air; and a mounting system attached to thebase, the mounting system comprising: a coupling anchor plate with aslot, a brace for securing the apparatus to a patient transportationdevice, a center safety catch comprising a backing plate extension fromthe base, wherein the backing plate extension interlocks with the slotof the coupling anchor plate, wherein the brace interlocks to the anchorplate forming a C-channel that provides an interconnection to thepatient transportation device, at least two safety skid plates attachedto the base of the apparatus on opposing sides of the base; a tubularpivoting crossbar with at least two fastening screws, wherein thefastening screws are located on the crossbar that connects the anchorplate and the brace to the base; at least two slotted adjustable tensionplates fixed to the tubular pivoting crossbar one on each opposing sideof the crossbar, wherein the anchor plate and the brace are directlyattached to the tubular pivoting crossbar with the at least twofastening screws, wherein the crossbar is fixed to the two slottedadjustment tension plates; wherein the tubular pivoting crossbarincludes an outer tube which encases coaxially an inner tube in a mannerallowing an air gap in between the outer tube and the inner tube thatpermit the crossbar to pivot, wherein the inner tube is permanentlyaffixed to the slotted adjustable tension plates at both ends of thetubular pivoting crossbar, while the outer tube is permanently affixedto a backside of the anchor plate and the brace; and at least twolocking tension knob, wherein the slotted adjustable tension plates areattached to the base via the locking tension knobs; assembling thecollapsible isolation apparatus by folding out the plurality of rigid orsoft panel elements into an assembled configuration; providing theperson treatment using the collapsible isolation apparatus in theassembled configuration; and placing and orienting the person within thecollapsible isolation apparatus in the assembled configuration.
 11. Themethod of claim 10, further comprising: securing an intravenous (IV)pole to the collapsible isolation apparatus, mounting an IV bag to theIV pole; and providing hydration to the person by coupling a tube fromthe IV bag to the person.
 12. The method of claim 10, further comprisingattaching a flexible transparent cover enclosing most or substantiallyall of an open side of the collapsible isolation apparatus.
 13. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the patient transportation device is one ofa gurney, a stretcher, a hospital bed, a surgical bed, an ambulance cot,or similar four-wheeled device with a mattress and frame.
 14. The methodof claim 10, further comprises attaching the apparatus to the patienttransportation device.